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Microbiology Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Microbiology Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Microbiology tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Sr. Microbiologist

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Perform microbiology, sterilization, biocompatibility, and chemical assessments for new product introductions, design/process changes, and day-to-day activities * Actively support and advise on ...

Position Title Medical Technologist, Microbiology Purpose & Scope: Responsible for performing all procedures on a rotation basis in the clinical department on a diverse age population. Responsible to ...

Position Title Medical Technologist, Microbiology Purpose & Scope: Responsible for performing all procedures on a rotation basis in the clinical department on a diverse age population. Responsible to ...

Showing results 21-40

Microbiology information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$21

$34

How much do microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology in Reston, VA is $21.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is microbiology?

Microbiology is the scientific study of microorganisms, which are tiny living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Microbiologists research how these organisms live, grow, and interact with their environments, including how they affect humans, animals, plants, and the ecosystem. The field is essential for understanding diseases, developing antibiotics and vaccines, improving food safety, and advancing biotechnology. Careers in microbiology can involve laboratory research, clinical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and industrial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiologist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and aseptic techniques is commonly required, and certifications like ASCP may be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for conducting precise experiments and collaborating with research teams. These competencies are crucial for generating reliable data, ensuring safety, and advancing scientific understanding in both clinical and research environments.

What are some common challenges faced by microbiologists when interpreting lab results, and how can they be addressed?

Microbiologists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between contamination and true pathogens, dealing with ambiguous test results, and ensuring the accuracy of cultures. Addressing these challenges involves maintaining strict aseptic techniques, regularly calibrating equipment, and collaborating with clinicians to understand patient histories. Continuous professional development and adherence to standardized protocols also help in minimizing errors and improving the reliability of laboratory findings.

What is the difference between Microbiology vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMicrobiologyMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in microbiology or related field; certifications varyAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, hospitals, public health labsHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, healthcare, biotechHealthcare facilities, diagnostic labs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Microbiology and Medical Laboratory Technicians both work in healthcare and laboratory settings, but microbiologists typically have advanced degrees and focus on studying microorganisms, while medical laboratory technicians perform routine tests under supervision. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

Are microbiologists in high demand?

Microbiologists are in steady demand across healthcare, research, and environmental sectors due to ongoing needs for disease control, diagnostics, and biotechnological advancements. Employment opportunities often require a bachelor's degree in microbiology or related fields, with advanced roles favoring those with master's or doctoral degrees and laboratory skills.

Is microbiologist a good career?

A microbiologist studies microorganisms and often works in laboratories, healthcare, or research settings. The career typically requires a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field, with advanced roles demanding a master's or Ph.D., and offers opportunities in public health, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Job prospects depend on industry demand, research funding, and geographic location.

What jobs come from microbiology?

Microbiology graduates can pursue careers such as microbiologist, clinical laboratory technician, research scientist, quality control analyst, or food safety specialist. These roles often require laboratory skills, knowledge of microbiological techniques, and sometimes certifications or advanced degrees.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Microbiology jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Microbiology jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Microbiology job openings:

Infographic showing various Microbiology job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,687 per year, or $22 per hour.

Supervisor Laboratory- Microbiology

Inova

Fairfax, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Laboratory Supervisor

Inova Juniper Street is looking for a dedicated Laboratory Supervisor to join the Microbiology team. The position is a Full-Time Evening Shift: Monday-Friday, every other weekend. 

Inova is consistently ranked as a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities.

Laboratory Supervisor Job Responsibilities:

  • Oversees and assists team members in assigned functional area, which may include but not limited to, ensuring team is meeting key-deliverables and quality standards, addressing and resolving challenges, managing and tracking performance, and assisting in time management and scheduling; escalates issues to senior leaders as needed.
  • Conducts team member counseling, coaching and disciplinary sessions; Manages team member relations.
  • Takes ownership for the selection of methodology and instrumentation to perform laboratory tests appropriate for the patient population served.
  • Ensures participation in and successful completion of a quality control and approved proficiency testing program commensurate with the services offered.
  • Maintains high visibility in work areas and provides leadership for daily operational issues for teams across all shifts and throughout assigned areas.
  • Coordinates efforts of team to maintain and/or implement changes in work processes to ensure high quality outcomes and meet established success indicators.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education:  Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college/university in Medical Laboratory Science / Medical Technology, Histology or Cytology OR A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college/university with 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) in biology including one semester in microbiology and 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) in chemistry including one semester in organic or biochemistry, which may be obtained within, or in addition to, the baccalaureate degree. And Successful completion of a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training course within the last ten years OR Successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Medical Laboratory Scientist program or MLT program.
  • Years of Experience: 4 years of extensive experience and knowledge of laboratory processes, advanced troubleshooting skills, leadership skills, strong interpersonal, communication and team building skills.
  • Certification Upon Start: ASCP or AMT Board certification consistent with scope of responsibility to include MT, MLS, MLT, BB, SBB, C, H, M, SH, SCT, MB, SMB, SM, SC, and HEW.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Lab Management Experience with 5 years generalist experience

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.


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